As winter electricity bills continue to rise around the world, one Argentinian father and son team has come up with an alternative that’s affordable, portable, and eco-friendly — a stove heater powered entirely by alcohol.
In a country where harsh winters and energy costs are major concerns, Matías Di Tomaso and his father Gabriel created a heating device that requires no gas or electricity. The alcohol-powered heater, built under their brand Di Tomaso Design, could soon become a global solution for those seeking relief from energy costs.
How It Works
The heater runs on 96% ethylic alcohol (ethanol), a renewable resource made from sugarcane, molasses, or grain. It’s easy to find in most pharmacies and has a much lower environmental impact than traditional fuels.
Each heater:
- Comes with burners that prevent spills and let users adjust heat intensity
- Can be wheeled from room to room
- Requires no installation or maintenance
- Can also be used as a mosquito repellent when citronella oil is added
- Doubles as a decorative piece for indoor or outdoor spaces
There are currently two models:
- A 3,000 kcal/h version for spaces up to 30 square meters
- A 4,000 kcal/h version for rooms up to 40 square meters
Born from Necessity
The invention was sparked by Argentina’s spike in gas prices in 2017, which pushed the Di Tomasos to search for more affordable home heating options. After several prototypes, they finally developed a safe and efficient alcohol-powered stove.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, rising alcohol prices posed a challenge — but the father-son duo pressed on, even opening a showroom in their own backyard to demonstrate their heaters.
Why You Might Want One
These heaters offer multiple advantages:
- No toxic fumes or carbon monoxide risk
- Lower long-term costs compared to electric or gas heaters
- No installation, no maintenance, and up to 10 years of durability
- Ideal for homes, cabins, patios, and emergency backup use
Currently Only in Argentina
As of now, these alcohol-powered heaters are only available in Argentina through Di Tomaso Design. But with global interest growing due to rising energy costs and environmental concerns, international expansion could be on the horizon.
A Timely Invention in a Global Crisis
The global energy crisis — worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine — has left millions struggling to afford basic heating. This invention represents how local innovation can make a global impact, offering comfort, sustainability, and hope in uncertain times.